#asktheexpert atharv not speeking well what can I do

1 Answer

POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 6 m old boy9 months ago

A. If your child (around 4 years old) is not speaking well, here are steps you can take to help improve their speech development: 1. Evaluate the Situation: Hearing Check: Ensure their hearing is normal. Hearing issues can delay speech development. Developmental Milestones: Compare their speech to typical milestones for their age. For example: At 4 years, they should form sentences of 4-5 words, ask questions, and narrate simple stories. 2. Create a Language-Rich Environment: Talk Often: Narrate daily activities, describe objects, and explain actions. Read Together: Choose age-appropriate storybooks and encourage interaction by asking questions about the story. Sing Songs and Rhymes: Music helps build vocabulary and pronunciation skills. 3. Limit Screen Time: Replace screen time with interactive play that encourages verbal communication. 4. Encourage Interaction: Play games that require verbal instructions, like "Simon Says" or pretend play. Arrange playdates with peers who have good verbal skills to model behavior. 5. Be Patient and Encouraging: Avoid correcting them harshly or finishing their sentences. Praise their efforts to encourage confidence. 6. Seek Professional Help: Speech Therapist: If progress is slow or their speech is significantly delayed, consult a speech-language pathologist. Developmental Pediatrician: They can rule out any underlying developmental conditions. 7. Practice Exercises: Encourage blowing bubbles, whistles, or pinwheels to strengthen oral muscles. Repeat simple sounds or words and ask them to imitate you. Early intervention is key, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you're concerned.